Pro-Ron Paul delegates challenged in Maine

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A pro-Ron Paul slate of delegates from Maine to the Republican National Convention is being challenged.

Peter Cianchette, a prominent Republican leader, and Janet Martens Staples, a Maine representative on the Republican National Committee, filed the challenge to 14 pro-Paul delegates and alternates on Saturday, the last day they could be challenged.

Staples told the Maine Sunday Telegram (http://bit.ly/OvnYvN ) that there was no quorum at May's Republican state convention when the delegates were elected, that illegal votes were cast and parliamentary rules were broken.

One of the challenged delegates, Matt McDonald, said the challenge is "utter foolishness" and that Democrats will use it to bash Republicans.

Staples said the challenge will be heard by the party's Contest Committee. The GOP convention is being held Aug. 27-30 in Tampa, Fla.